WHEREAS, Necrotizing Fasciitis was first described within medical literature in 1883 by Fournier and was originally described as a disease of unknown causes; and

WHEREAS, it is an uncommon clinical disease of the layers of tissue under the skin that attracts a high profile within popular media where it is often referred to as the ‘flesh eating bug or virus;’ and

WHEREAS, the most common causes of the disease are the bacteria group A hemolytic, Streptococcus pyogenes and Staphylococcus aureus, either alone or in combination; other cases are reported to be caused by other types of bacteria including those naturally found within the intestines of normal healthy individuals; and

WHEREAS, Necrotizing Fasciitis can occur in any age group, although sometimes there are precipitating factors; it is most commonly associated with surgical procedures, but may be seen in those with diabetes mellitus, atherosclerotic vascular disease, malignancy and hypertension; and

WHEREAS, in rare occasions it may occur following minor injuries to the skin, falls, cuts or tears but sometimes is not clear and can occur in apparently healthy individuals; and

WHEREAS, while progress has been made in understanding the symptoms and better diagnosing the disease, there is still much to learn about Necrotizing Fasciitis, but with increased research, the goal of discovering the cause, improving treatment and finding a cure are attainable;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BRIAN SANDOVAL, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF NEVADA, do hereby proclaim May 31, 2018 as

Necrotizing Fasciitis Awareness Day in Nevada

In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Great Seal of the State of Nevada to be affixed at the State Capitol in Carson City, this 10th day of April, 2018.